Football | Africa

Wilfried Bony in demand

Ivory Coast international Wilfried Bony, who plays for Vitesse Arnhem in the Eredivisie Dutch league, is one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe at the moment.

The 24-year-old heads Netherlands’ top scorer list with 15 goals in 15 outings and also the number one African goal scorer in Europe.

Radio France International (RFI) has confirmed links with top sides such as AC Milan, Liverpool, Chelsea, CSKA Moscow and Olympique Marseille, but the man who substitutes Didier Drogba at the Ivorian national team, says he would like to play in the English Premier League if he leaves Vitesse.

“The English Premier League is where my abilities suit for now and one that attracts me most. The German Bundesliga and Italian Serie A are great as well, but I would like to play in England,” he says.

Groomed at local Ivorian side Issia Wazi, Bony joined Portugal’s Sparta Prague in 2008 on loan before signing an improved contract later on and scoring 22 goals in 59 games across three seasons.

He has earned 49 caps and scored 30 goals since joining the Vitas in 2011 and wishes to bring that form to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, but may not have the chance to prove his worth because of Drogba, who takes charge as the Elephants’ centre forward.

“I will keep watching and learning from Drogba. He is a great footballer and keeps doing wonders and there is no way I can replace him for now. But I’ll keep fingers crossed to be able to play a few games at the South Africa 2013,” he adds.